Resolution: Marine Industry Proposal to the Canadian Government Regarding Canadian Coast Guard Marine Service Fees
Adopted on June 17, 2003

Whereas, The Great Lakes/Waterway system contributes more than $6 billion to the economies of Canada and the United States and directly supports more than 65,000 jobs in both countries, and

Whereas, although the Waterway moves more than 50 million tonnes of cargo between Canada and the United States, the system could play an ever more important role in reducing congestion on the region’s road network though increased use; and

Whereas, the Waterway’s marine community faces an increasing challenge to remain competitive both domestically with other modes of transport and internationally with the marine sector of other countries; and

Whereas, the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) imposes charges on the commercial shipping sector of over $35 million per year for navigational aids, dredging, vessel traffic services and icebreaking; and

Whereas, more than 800 of Canada’s marine community of ports, shippers, carriers, and trade associations (under the umbrella of the National Marine and Industrial Coalition) endorsed the August 26, 2002 long-term proposal calling for the establishment of an ongoing partnership between industry and the CCG with the goal of ensuring that services and programs are delivered in the most cost-effective manner possible while eliminating the fees as soon as possible; and

Whereas, eliminating CCG marine services fees would be a positive step in demonstrating the Canadian government’s commitment to promoting a vital economic driver and enhancing the competitiveness of the Great Lakes’ region’s industrial base;

Therefore, be it resolved, , that the International Association of Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Mayors urges the Canadian Government, through the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, to accept the August 26, 2002 proposal from the National Marine and Industrial Coalition.